Sautéed Chicken with Spicy Tomato and Bell Pepper Sauce
Tender chicken breast sautéed and simmered in a vibrant, spicy tomato and bell pepper sauce for a flavorful weeknight meal. This mediterranean-inspired chicken ready in about 35 minutes blends boneless skinless chicken breasts, olive oil, medium, diced red bell pepper into a versatile sauce that lifts everything from grain bowls and roasted vegetables to grilled proteins — a small-batch staple worth keeping in the fridge. Each serving lands at about 320 calories and feeds 4, so a small batch covers several meals across the week without taking over the fridge. Tap "Plan a meal with the AI" below to drop this recipe into your week and send the ingredients straight to Instacart. Nutrition values are approximate, calculated from USDA FoodData Central (fdc.nal.usda.gov) — verify against ingredient labels for any health-driven dietary plan.
Ingredients
- 1 lb boneless skinless chicken breasts
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 medium, diced red bell pepper
- 1 medium, diced yellow bell pepper
- 3, minced garlic cloves
- 1 can (14 oz) crushed tomatoes
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/2 tsp red chili flakes
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 2 tbsp, chopped fresh parsley
Instructions
- Step 1: Heat 2 tbsp olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season 1 lb boneless skinless chicken breasts with 1 tsp salt and 1/2 tsp black pepper, then add to the skillet and cook for 5-6 minutes per side until golden and cooked through. Remove chicken and set aside.
- Step 2: In the same skillet, add 3 minced garlic cloves, 1 diced red bell pepper, and 1 diced yellow bell pepper. Sauté for 4-5 minutes until the peppers soften and the garlic is fragrant.
- Step 3: Stir in 1 can (14 oz) crushed tomatoes, 1 tsp smoked paprika, and 1/2 tsp red chili flakes. Simmer the sauce over medium heat for 8-10 minutes until it thickens and the flavors meld.
- Step 4: Return the chicken to the skillet, spoon the sauce over the top, and cook together for 2 minutes to warm through. Sprinkle 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley before serving.
Frequently asked questions
How long does Sautéed Chicken with Spicy Tomato and Bell Pepper Sauce take to make?
Total time is about 35 minutes (10 min prep + 25 min cook). A small batch typically covers several meals in the week — store as the recipe directs.
How do I store leftover Sautéed Chicken with Spicy Tomato and Bell Pepper Sauce?
Transfer to an airtight jar and refrigerate for up to 5–7 days. Most sauces freeze well for up to 2 months — portion into small containers or freezer bags so you can thaw only what you need. Stir before serving; cream- or yogurt-based sauces may separate on standing.
Can I substitute ingredients in Sautéed Chicken with Spicy Tomato and Bell Pepper Sauce?
Yes — most ingredients in this recipe have flexible swaps. For oil, use any neutral high-smoke-point oil (avocado, grapeseed, refined coconut). For aromatics, dried herbs at ⅓ the volume of fresh work in a pinch. The full ingredient list is shoppable on Instacart so you can see substitutes in real time.
How do I scale Sautéed Chicken with Spicy Tomato and Bell Pepper Sauce for a different number of people?
The recipe is written for 4 servings. Multiply each ingredient by (your serving target / 4). Cook time stays roughly the same up to 2x; for 3-4x batches, switch from a skillet to a sheet pan or stockpot so the food isn't crowded — overcrowding steams instead of browns.
What goes well with Sautéed Chicken with Spicy Tomato and Bell Pepper Sauce?
Mediterranean chicken like this pair well with a simple grain (rice, couscous, or crusty bread), a quick salad with acid (lemon vinaigrette, pickled onions), and a pan sauce or yogurt-based dip. Tap "Plan a meal with the AI" to get specific side suggestions.
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